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Is There an Alternative to LASIK?

Are you tired of dealing with contact lenses and glasses to correct your vision? If so, it may be time to look into other options to help you see clearly. Many people find relief from poor vision through corrective eye surgery. Although the most popular of these surgeries is LASIK, LASIK isn’t the perfect surgery for everyone. One alternative to LASIK is called Photorefractive Keratectomy, or PRK for short. In this blog, we’ll outline what PRK is, how it works, who can undergo PRK surgery, and how to prepare for your PRK procedure.

What is PRK?

PRK is short for Photorefractive Keratectomy. Unlike LASIK, this procedure aims to reshape the surface layers of the eye, rather than the deeper tissue. Although PRK and LASIK aren’t exactly the same, they both aim to achieve the same result: to allow light to enter the eye and focus properly on the retina in the back of the eye, resulting in more clear vision. PRK is a suitable choice for those suffering from myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism (a misshapen cornea).

How does it work?

A PRK procedure works around the outer layer of the eye. The exact procedure is as follows:

Your eye is numbed using special eye drops.

The doctor gently removes the protective surface layer of the eye. You will feel some pressure, but minimal discomfort.

You will be asked to look at a target light while the laser reshapes the cornea, usually in less than a minute.

The doctor will apply temporary contact lenses which function as a “bandage” to protect your eyes and to prevent discomfort.

What is the recovery time for a PRK procedure?

The recovery time for PRK is slightly longer than LASIK because the outer layer of your eye needs time to heal. The average recovery time is about three to five days, during which your doctor will prescribe eye drops to prevent infection and keep eyes from becoming too dry.

Who is the best candidate for PRK?

PRK is great for treating low to moderate levels of myopia or hyperopia (nearsightedness and farsightedness) with and without astigmatism. It’s a great alternative to LASIK, especially for people with thinner corneas and for individuals who may have certain corneal irregularities. Prime candidates for PRK are at least 18 years old and have stable vision. PRK is not for people who are pregnant or nursing, have glaucoma, or any medical conditions that may interfere with the healing process. The best way to determine if PRK is a good fit for you is to set up a consultation with an eye surgery specialist.Laser eye surgery is a popular and effective way to correct common vision problems. For those few who aren’t perfect candidates for LASIK, PRK is an especially convenient alternative. Thanks to PRK, you have the power to improve your vision!

At Williamson Eye Institute, we are committed to preserving and protecting our patients’ eye health throughout their lives. To find out more, visit our websiteor call our office to schedule a personal consultation. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

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Patient Testimonials

Take it from our patients and the results they have experienced!

I have had eye surgery at a big “box-pital” and at Williamson Eye Institute. Based on my experience, I prefer Williamson Eye Institute... All of the Williamson associates I interacted with went beyond the extra mile to reassure [me] and instill confidence in their practitioners’ experience and expertise.

Susan Y.

After my third child and dry contacts, I knew I wanted Lasik! Eye site is a beautiful thing! Williamson Eye Institute was Great in every way.

Courtney

The staff at Williamson Eye Institute are so kind and comforting. They guided me through my PRK procedure flawlessly, from the consultation to the post-op. I could not have asked for a better experience! Thank You all for helping me be glasses free!!

Knowing what I know now after having the procedure, I am sorry I didn't have it done sooner! After wearing glasses and contacts for 12 years, I forgot about all of the restrictions corrective lenses impose. LASIK has offered me freedom in the simple things like seeing the alarm clock in the morning, putting on my make-up and driving with sunglasses in the sunlight.

Janie SieversBusinesswoman

It is delightful to get out of bed and be able to see.

Carol C.Businesswoman

I have a new-found sense of freedom. I no longer reach for my bifocals or glasses

Jan W.School principal

I think I can see Mars.

Tom W.President of Link Management Co

The mirrors in my house work for the first time.

Bart B.radio sports personality and Purdue All-American football player

It is nice to get up in the morning to go to the gym and not have to fight with my contacts. The procedure was extremely simple and pain-free. I would recommend Dr. Williamson to all my friends and family who are candidates.

Dr. Loretta PiggotOptometrist

My vision was increased immensely. I couldn't tolerate playing golf with my glasses and now I do not have to use glasses to play at all.

-Dr. DittoDentist in Layafette

Williamson Eye Institute provides exceptional eye care for a diverse set of eye diseases and common vision problems. Our experienced group of doctors and nurses has been treating patients throughout north central Indiana for over 40 years with state-of-the-art technology and the latest procedures.